Prince Harry appeared in a new video message Thursday, just hours after his uncle Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office. Speaking from his Montecito home, Harry launched a nationwide appeal urging the British public to nominate “unsung heroes” for the 2026 WellChild Awards.

Harry, who has served as patron of the charity supporting seriously ill children for 18 years, described the annual event as a “magical” celebration. He praised young people facing complex medical challenges who meet life with “positivity, courage, humor and an extraordinary joy for living.”

The appearance came amid renewed scrutiny of the royal family following Andrew’s arrest on February 19. Sources told People the situation is viewed as “embarrassing” for the wider family, leaving “a stain on everybody.”

Andrew was arrested at Wood Farm on King Charles’ Sandringham estate in Norfolk. He is suspected of misconduct in public office tied to allegations that he shared confidential information with Jeffrey Epstein while serving as a UK trade envoy. He has not been charged and denies any wrongdoing.

The arrest allows police to question him under caution and search properties for evidence. A final decision on charges will be made by the Crown Prosecution Service after the investigation. Legal experts stress an arrest does not automatically mean charges will follow.

The development has renewed attention on Harry’s long-standing frustrations over being compared to his uncle. A source says Harry’s views are consistent with his belief in justice and accountability, pointing to his recent court battles against the British tabloid press.

Andrew was stripped of military titles and patronages in 2022 after a sexual assault lawsuit filed by Virginia Giuffre, an Epstein accuser. He settled the case out of court. Giuffre died by suicide on April 24, 2025.